Mthokozisi Ncube,
OUTGOING Miss Tourism Zimbabwe, Nomqhele Sisa Nkomo, who is preparing to hand over the crown to her successor at a pageant taking place in Harare on Saturday, has described her reign as a life-changing journey that changed her perception of many things.
In an interview, Nkomo, a journalism student at the National University of Science and Technology, said that during her tenure, she championed initiatives that linked tourism with community development, placing emphasis on cultural representation and youth empowerment. She said one of her proudest achievements was using creative storytelling to promote Zimbabwean identity.
“One of the projects I’m proud of is using storytelling through media, fashion and poetry to celebrate Zimbabwean identity. It allowed me to merge creativity with purpose,” she said.
“As a person, I’ve grown not only in confidence, but in discipline, resilience and emotional intelligence.”
Nkomo also carried the country’s flag on the international stage in Malaysia, where she competed in a global pageant and secured a Top 10 placement in the talent category.
“Representing Zimbabwe internationally was an incredible honour. I carried my country with pride, ensuring that my voice, presence and message reflected the beauty and strength of Zimbabwe,” she said.
Despite the glamour often associated with pageantry, Nkomo said her reign came with its fair share of challenges, including balancing academic commitments, personal life and national duties.
“There were moments of exhaustion, self-doubt and pressure, but I remained grounded in my purpose and leaned on support systems,” she said.
She described pageantry as a powerful vehicle for tourism promotion, noting that it goes beyond beauty to become a platform for national storytelling.
As one of the few Miss Tourism Zimbabwe titleholders in nearly a decade to represent the country internationally, Nkomo believes her participation helped reopen global opportunities for future queens.
She expressed hope that her journey would inspire young women, particularly those from Bulawayo, to pursue their ambitions with confidence.
As she prepares to pass on the crown, Nkomo urged her successor to embrace the role with purpose and commitment.
“Wear the crown with intention. It is more than a symbol; it is a responsibility. Serve wholeheartedly, because your impact will last beyond the title.”
Meanwhile, all is set for the Miss Tourism Zimbabwe pageant, with 16 models expected to take to the ramp.
The contestants are Lisa Kwainona, Beautify Siziba, Vimbainashe Mutyavaviri, Zanele Moyo, Rutendo Magade, Zandile Sibanda, Ropafadzo P Manyanga, Alexis Thuthani, Ruvarashe Jane Darare, Miriraiishe Magebede, Petronella Phiri, Letween Pikire, Noxolo Dube, Kathleen Chaziya, Mavhu Alexandra Kaseke and Silence Tadzembwa.
The event will run under the theme: “See Zimbabwe First and Zimbabwe’s Ideal Miss.”